The Greek World after Alexander

Module code: AH7301 (double module)

In this module we will explore - through the critical analysis of translated sources and documents, archaeological data and secondary literature - how the Greek world changed after the death of Alexander the Great.

After his unexpected death in Babylon, and his heir an unborn child, parts of Alexander's empire were now controlled by his generals - coined 'Alexander's Successors'. We will explore the power vacuum that was now in place in the empire - the infighting between the Successors, the wars, and the rise of leagues.

You will gain a good understanding of different aspects of Hellenistic history, designing and carrying out your own independent research, and we will consider Rome's early relationship with the Greek world. This period - from Alexander the Great's death in 323 BC to the Roman conquests of Macedonia and Greece in the 2nd and 1st centuries BC - is the most 'Greek' period of Greek history, with spectacular architecture, widespread democratic institutions, and cosmopolitan culture.

The module aims:

• To build on existing knowledge and understanding of ancient history and its methods;
• To build skills in analysing relevant translated sources, documents, archaeological data, and secondary literature and the ways they can be used in combination;
• To develop oral discussion skills in relation to case studies and key issues.

On completion of this module you should be able to:

• Critically evaluate translated sources and documents, archaeological data, and secondary literature and deploy them effectively in combination as appropriate;
• Demonstrate a good understanding of aspects of Hellenistic history, and relate these to debates about Rome's early relationship with the Greek world;
• Design and carry out independent research and deliver the results effectively.